72 DICOTYLEDONE.E. 



proves their affinity. Besides the hemp (Cdnnabis) 

 others are furnished with filaceous matter in their 

 stem which, when properly prepared, is useful to the 

 spinning and weaving manufacturer. Of the Cdn- 

 nabis it may be observed, that the male flowers are 

 sometimes surmounted by a few female florets, which 

 is an aberration of nature. Some other plants present 

 the same phenomenon, as the Zea ; but such circum- 

 stances, though constitutional, are merely incidental 

 and attributable to the effects of high cultivation. 



The common nettle has an uncommon power of 

 dispersing the pollen. Under the excitement of bright 

 sunshine the anther discharges the pollen from an 

 aperture in clouds resembling the smoke from a musket. 

 This appears to be effected by an elastic gas suddenly 

 set at liberty with the pollen, or to the collapsion of 

 the pellicle of the anther after the opening is made. 

 This phenomenon, though not an inviting scene for a 

 refined naturalist, is really amusing. By standing in 

 the shade of high nettles in a hot day, the quick suc- 

 cession of explosions among the flowers, is not unlike 

 bush-fighting between the light troops of hostile 

 armies ! 



The next order which offers any thing interesting 

 to the physiologist is the IZuphorbidcece. The milk- 

 like juice so prevalent in the tribe, is a good mark of 

 distinction ; and being so different in colour and con- 

 sistence from any thing that can be absorbed by the 

 plants, is proof that it is the plant itself which con- 

 cocts and prepares its essential qualities. Castor oil 



